If you are new to filmmaking or are just looking for some more information on filmmaking before you take the leap and join the ranks of millions filmmakers, there are 9 key steps you’ll need to take to make your first film. This article will give you 9 filmmaking tips that are taught in film colleges around the world. Enjoy.
Concept
You’ll need a basic idea or concept before your movie ever takes production. This will include a plot, a storyline, characters and the location where your movie takes place. The best way to do this is write down your ideas on a piece of paper. Write down all the details, big and small. Then sort them out into topics and main ideas. This piece of paper will become your script and you can build off of that.
Script
After you have developed your concept, start putting your script together. Keep in mind that a script is not just dialogue. The script includes the location, what’s taking place and basically gives the overall mood of the movie. Script writing is the longest part of filmmaking believe it or not. Don’t get frustrated if your script changes along the way, that’s normal. Even for major filmmakers.
Storyboards
This is the fun part of filmmaking. After you have finished the script, put the scenes on storyboards. This will allow you to visualize the movie. You may need to hire an illustrator for this, but it’ll be worth it.
Funding
Yes, you’ll need some funds to put your movie together. If this is your first stab at filmmaking, then you’ll probably just pool together your own money along with the people you are working with. However, if you expect a studio to fund your film then you’ll have to follow these three guidelines: have a professional presentation, have a unique script and make sure your film is marketable.
Location
Now that funding is out of the way, you can focus on the location of your movie. Brainstorm a list of possible locations then check the sites to see if you need a permit to shoot a movie there. Many sites will require permits so don’t be surprised at this.
Cast/Crew
At times this can be a challenging part of filmmaking. Once you have your site location set, you’ll need to hire your cast. Many times you can post an ad in the paper online directories. A great place to start is at colleges. Colleges usually have a drama club and you can hire college kids pretty cheap.
Equipment
Keep in mind this is not some big production like Star Wars alright? You don’t need all the high tech equipment that Hollywood uses. But at minimum you should have a decent camera, lights, sound equipment, props, costumes and set pieces. Don’t go overboard on this or you’ll break the bank.
Start Filming
This is where the rubber hits the road in filmmaking. A film can be made in as little as 6 weeks, or as long as 6 months. For your first film, you should have it ready within two months. That’s a good goal to shoot for.
Edit
You may have six hours of footage for a 90 minute film. Don’t panic. The editing process is where the film becomes a movie. Take your time on this. Make sure to review and edit all your scenes until the movie is to your liking.
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Question by : Can anyone give me tips on how to start filmmaking?
Hi I’m 14 years old and I love movies. I wanna be a filmmaker/actor when I’m older. My idol is Quentin Tarantino . I would like to know how I can start filmmaking now.
Best answer:
Answer by Ryhan
Write a script. It should probably stay under five pages, since you probably don’t have enough time or money to afford a three hour epic. Keep it small. Scripts have particular formats, but you just need to separate dialogue (what characters say) from action.
Get your equipment. The hardest thing to get is a camera. Try asking your parents if they have one, and if you can use it. If they don’t, move on to other family members, like aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc. If they don’t have one, try asking your friends. You’re bound to find something.
3Find your cast and crew. Your cast can just be a couple of friends who like acting. Try asking around your school’s drama club. Try to find your best friends for the crew, or people with lots of patience, because the crew, or the people who help out behind the camera, are usually stuck doing the mundane tasks, like holding the script, lugging equipment around everywhere and getting the actors water.
4Find locations, props and costumes. For props and costumes, look through your wardrobe, garage/attic, and friends’ wardrobes. Try to shoot near your house, or in public property. It’s harder to get people’s permission for shooting by their house.
5Shoot the movie. Don’t try for the perfect take. Once things are as good as they’ll get, move to the next location.
6Edit. This is the most tiring part. Most computers nowadays come with editing software built in. Learn how yours works. iMovie is an amazing tool that is easy for a kid to use, but creates professional menus, transitions, and seamless cuts.
7Distribute. Invite everyone who helped make the movie over for a premiere screening. Send the movie to film competitions and festivals, and get it seen.
8Once you’re finished, make another movie!
Add your own answer in the comments!
The cinematographer is usually the person who lights a film, and the basic setup is known as the three-point setup. Use a main light, fill light and back light with filmmaking tips from a director and filmmaker in this free video on making movies. Expert: Jared Drake Contact: www.demogems.com Bio: Jared Drake graduated from the UCLA school of theater, film, and television with a focus on directing. Filmmaker: Jared Drake
Video Rating: 4 / 5
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